Update: Bauhaus Offers Free Mac Upgrade with Mirage Pre-Release

Final package to include hybrid Mac/Windows versions
By Dave Nagel

Earlier today we reported that Bauhaus Software has shipped the pre-release version of Mirage, a multi-function paint, compositing and animation suite. The pre-release version is available only for Windows, but the final version will also be available for Mac OS X when it ships in October. The company also tells us now that those who purchase the pre-release software will receive both Macintosh and Windows versions of the final 1.0 release. The pre-release version is limited to customers of NewTek Aura, LightWave or Video Toaster.

Mirage combines video and broadcast graphics, special effects, compositing, animation and painting capabilities into a single, unified environment designed to centralize the workflow for visual effects production. Mirage offers a wide range of production capabilities, including motion graphics, compositing, effects, animation and painting. It offers a large number of built-in effects, such as particles, flares, volumetric lighting, cloning, etc.; real-time, 64-bit, sub-pixel-accurate video painting, which includes text and video tools, natural media emulation, animated brushes and other drawing and filling features; infinite layer manipulation with color, luminance and difference keying (with color suppression), four-point tracking and two-point image stabilization; a full-featured, layer-based animation system, including keyframing and motion paths; a full complement of color correction tools, including HSV, LUTs, histogram and color-region-independent channel controls; and its own scripting language and plugin API.

The pre-release software supports Windows XP and 2000. Those who upgrade now from their NewTek software for $295 will receive a new full Mirage hardware key, along with the full Mirage disc and packaging when it ships in October. The package includes versions for Mac OS X and WIndows on the same disc using the same hardware key. The full version will ship Oct. 15 for Mac OS X and Windows for $895. For more information, visit http://www.bauhaussoftware.com.